Not so long ago, the most effective way to get an idea of the state of bone tissue in the oral cavity was a two-dimensional panoramic image. Currently, dentists are increasingly using computed tomography of teeth. The method allows you to generate volumetric images of the jaw for a specialist to consider visible and hidden tissue areas from all sides.
Research principle
Computed tomography of teeth is based on differences in the passage of
x-rays through individual tissue structures (bones, muscles). During the study, the radiation flows through the human body, after which it is captured at the output by a special detector. The result is a whole series of images, on the basis of which actually compiled 3D computer tomography of teeth.
The generated volumetric model is stored in the computer memory. Subsequently, such diagnostic results can be used by other doctors in the development of therapeutic methods.
Diagnostic Features
The use of innovative CT devices contributes to the following studies in the field of dentistry and maxillary surgery:
- Identification of tooth defects and abnormalities in the structure of bone tissue.
- The formation of ideas about the nature of focal infections.
- Gathering information to prepare for surgery.
- Control over the growth of pathological tissue in the maxillofacial region.
Fields of application
Computed tomography of teeth is indispensable primarily in surgical dentistry. The use of the research method opens up the possibility for complex dental implants,
bone grafting, and tumor diagnosis.
As for periodontics, here computed tomography of teeth helps to identify tumor-like and sclerotic defects of periodontal disease. Using the method, specialists also determine the level of bone resorption.
In the field of orthodontics, computed tomography of teeth (photos of tomographs presented in this material) makes it possible to find out the state of hard and soft tissues, to form an idea of the curvature of the dentition in preparation for prosthetics.
Obtaining volumetric, detailed images eliminates errors in the diagnosis. The effectiveness and safety of the method allows for the implementation of therapy in a short time.
How is computed tomography of teeth performed?
The process of forming three-dimensional images using a modern CT apparatus is a simple, quick and painless procedure. To begin with, the patient needs to find where the computed tomography of teeth in Moscow is carried out, the addresses of medical institutions that have similar equipment. As for the study itself, it is carried out as follows:
- The patient places his chin on a CT stand. The head is fixed in a static position. During the taking of pictures, the patient is asked to remain completely calm and not to move. Such preparation for diagnosis eliminates the receipt of low-quality images.
- The specialist activates the CT apparatus. After a few moments, the first pictures are formed on the monitor connected to the tomograph.
- When performing a diagnosis, the doctor monitors the patient's condition. The equipment turns off as soon as the device produces as many images as are enough to create a three-dimensional model.
As a rule, computed tomography of teeth lasts no more than a minute. During this time, the patient does not have time to experience discomfort. Among other things, the degree of short-term exposure is so small that there is no critical damage to human health.
Contraindications
Who is not recommended to undergo computed tomography of teeth? Despite the general safety of the method, x-ray radiation still affects tissues and organs during the study. Therefore, the decision to conduct the procedure must be purely individual.
It is recommended to refuse research:
- Pregnant women - even minimal exposure can potentially harm an unformed fetus.
- Nursing mothers - X-rays adversely affect the structure of milk. In the case of a study, women are advised to refrain from breastfeeding for several days.
- For people who suffer from claustrophobia, not only limited space in the diagnostic room can cause panic states in such patients, but also rotation of the moving part of the device, with the help of which volumetric images are formed.
- Patients who find it difficult to maintain complete immobility for physiological reasons.
- Allergy sufferers and people with diabetes. The need to introduce a contrast medium into the body to take pictures in this case can cause a whole host of unpleasant consequences and harm health.
Finally
As you can see, computed tomography of teeth is an extremely effective, safe diagnostic method that eliminates the possibility of
medical error. The ability to create a three-dimensional model of the studied area makes it possible not only to form an idea of the state of deep bone tissue, but also to identify various pathologies in the early stages of development.